39 Encounters in Samara

Nynaeve and Uno enter chaotic Samara, slipping past Whitecloak scrutiny. Guided through back alleys, they surrender weapons to see Masema. Inside, Nynaeve observes Masema browbeating a richly dressed woman and issuing brutal, arbitrary “justice” edicts while condemning wealth and fleshly temptation.

Uno and Ragan quietly explain Masema’s ascetic giving and his dangerous authority. Brought before him, Nynaeve provokes Masema with her attire before Uno reframes her as a woman favored by Rand. Masema seizes on her past with Rand, demanding she preach his childhood “miracles.” Nynaeve instead claims she must reach Rand in Tear and asks for a riverboat.

After a tense pause, Masema agrees to seek a vessel “eventually,” commands Uno and Ragan to guard Nynaeve, and admonishes her to dress “virtuously.” The trio withdraws quickly to avoid his volatile mood. Outside, Uno warns that a few more words could have led to her public punishment, recounting prior floggings and near-executions for perceived blasphemy.

As they navigate Samara, Uno and Ragan outline Ghealdan’s political collapse: successive monarchs fell while confronting Masema until Alliandre placated him and stabilized the realm by riding his rising power. Nynaeve decries the cowed compliance but recognizes his sway.

Finally, Uno spots a Whitecloak tail. Nynaeve diverts them down a side street, glimpses the follower, and recognizes Galad, confirming he is tracking her.